Chelsea defeats Dortmund to advance to the quarterfinals of the Champions League.
Chelsea defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-0 at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday to advance 2-1 on aggregate to the quarterfinals of the Champions League, protecting their season.
Graham Potter was relieved of the burden after goals from Raheem Sterling and Kai Havertz, who converted two penalties.
The English manager’s position was in danger following a season that had thus far failed to pay off a record-breaking injection of more than £500 million ($600 million) in new recruits in one season.
Chelsea had only won three of their previous 16 games, which caused them to drop to the 10th spot in the Premier League and exit both domestic cup competitions early.
Yet, a few of their costly star lineup arrived in time to help them continue their bid for a third European Cup.
“The dressing room was filled with a wonderful energy. We’ve had a difficult time, so this tournament means a lot to us,” added Potter.
“We wanted to advance and reach the final eight, and it positions us for the next weeks.”
Dortmund had a 10-game winning streak in all competitions when they came in England.
With the exception of a spectacular save by Kepa Arrizabalaga on a free-kick by Marco Reus, the visitors didn’t really offer a danger offensively in the opening period.
Edin Terzic, the manager of Dortmund, declared that after two games, Chelsea deserved to advance.
“The games were fairly close in both legs. In these games, inches and seconds determine your success.
At the other end, chances constantly came and went. After hitting a volley off the inside of the post and the underside of the bar, Havertz finally scored, but the goal was disallowed due to Sterling’s previous offside.
Ben Cherwell’s free kick presented Kalidou Koulibaly with an opportunity to score, but he mishandled it, and Felix’s follow-up shot was stopped on the line.
On the sidelines, Potter was surprisingly passionate as he continually energized the crowd to keep pushing his team forward.
The conclusion contains a lot of emotion, Potter continued. “In the end, it was tense, but the boys played outstandingly.
“I’m thrilled for them to receive the win and their fans deserve to celebrate.”
Chelsea defeats Dortmund to advance to the quarterfinals of the Champions League
